tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882Thu, 21 Sep 2017 20:07:07 +0000Luzerne County10th CDLou Barletta11th CDYouTube2008Chris CarneyPaul KanjorskiblogosphereBarack ObamaChris HackettPresidentW-BBaseballPresident 2012Mitt RomneyMark CiavarellaTom Marinoguest postDan MeuserholidaysMichael ConahanJuvie BrothersRick SantorumJohn McCainPhyllis MundyWalter GriffithMaryanne PetrillaSteve UrbanMatt Cartwright120th17th CDControllerLife the universe everything2007 electionsLuzerne County scandalsKaren BobackHillary117th DistrictGreg SkrepnakMarcellus ShaleLuzerne County CouncilJohn YudichakblogfestGreg SkrepenakSarah PalinPatrick MurphyTom Corbetthome ruleCorey O'BrienHazletonRobert Powellpet bloggingBarak ObamablogArlen SpecterLuzerne County Judgesmean old manTim Holdenimmigrationthe committeeBob MorganPlains TwpLaureen CummingsLuzerne County CommissionersTom Leighton119thAaron KauferBond BrothersCaroleeKathleen KaneEddie Day PashinskiRepublicansW-B Areagerald mulleryGene StilpPenn stateBushPA 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PatrickPennsylvania SocietyPennsylvania legislaturePeter MosesPink PigPlains MeatPost OfficeRalph NaderRand PaulRandy TomasacciRay ArellanoRay GustaveRehobothRenee< Rick HeffronRepublican National ConventionRose TuckerRuns with ScissorsRuss DiamondRussell NigroRusty FlackSabrina McLaughlinSallie MaeSam TroySandra BrunoSatireScamsSchoolsScot CannonScott BrionSean WalkerSeante 14Shawn WalkerSheehan'sShop LocalShutdownSid Michaels KSkrepnakSosarSpaceState LegislatureStellersStephen MennStephen UrbanSteve BloomSteve CorbettSteve SaporitoSteve SmithTARPTeachersTed CruzTed KennedyTeletubbiesThe ClashThe Popular FrontThe SimpsonsThe WorldTiffany OlsenTim BurnsTim LaceyTim McGinleyTina FeyTobyhannaTom JuntaTom MarsilioTom PizanoTom PribullaTom RyanTom ShibulaTom WittsTwitterUKUS AttorneyUSPSVet CenterVic KopkoVice PresidentVitterW-B ControllerW-B School BoardWBREWall StreetWilkes U.XmasYard signsYoat the Wyoming Valley Country ClubuTubeYouTubbblbudgetcarncartoonscatholicschristcopyrightcorruptiondeath penaltydr rickeminent domainenviromentfilibusterfoogas pricesgolden parachutehackershate crimeshoholidaysCorruption Junctionhurricainehurricanejokeskankathy Dahlkemperllabor unionslady Gagalegislaturemethadone clinicosama bin ladenradiorered soxreformscott walkersheila saidmanspringtt Toomeyth Districtthird partiestravelw-catwalterweyGort42A random journal about local politics, baseball and whatever comes to mind.http://gort42.blogspot.com/noreply@blogger.com (Gort)Blogger3848125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-2006773850599604928Tue, 19 Sep 2017 21:44:00 +00002017-09-19T17:54:23.905-04:002018 11th CDAlan HoweAndrew ShecktorDan MeuserLou BarlettaSteve BloomSteve Bloom for CongressThere is now a 3rd Republican candidate to replace Lou Barletta in the PA 11th CD with a few more to come. <span style="font-weight: 400;">State Rep. Stephen Bloom (R-Cumberland)joins Dan Meuser and Andrew Shecktor looking to join the swamp in Washington. Alan Howe is the only Dem in the race so far.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BBVnOCTY6dQ/WcGLJ1PFU_I/AAAAAAAAFlg/xjA7ZUIG6FwgQuB9l6LV_uVsG1e2lTs3gCLcBGAs/s1600/998943_605915726095906_1170457849_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BBVnOCTY6dQ/WcGLJ1PFU_I/AAAAAAAAFlg/xjA7ZUIG6FwgQuB9l6LV_uVsG1e2lTs3gCLcBGAs/s320/998943_605915726095906_1170457849_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">He didn't send out a traditional press release or announce his candidacy at a rally but put up a&nbsp; YouTube video.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">You can view it at his website:<a href="https://actnowcongress.org/" target="_blank"> https://actnowcongress.org/</a></span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="http://timesleader.com/news/local/675771/cumberland-county-legislator-enters-11th-district-race" target="_blank">Bill O in the TL</a> sums up his platform&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Obamacare bad, secure the border, give the Pentagon more money, bad trade deals </span><br /><span style="font-weight: 400;">and end taxpayer subsidies for the heartbreaking abortion industry.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: 400;">Also from his website:&nbsp;</span><br /><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-weight: 400;">As a husband, parent, and grandparent, I can’t imagine losing this once-in-a-generation opportunity to do good. That’s why I’m running for Congress. It’s time for action.</span></i><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: 400;">&nbsp;</span>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/09/steve-bloom-for-congress.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-8301808459979920177Thu, 14 Sep 2017 18:36:00 +00002017-09-14T14:36:08.234-04:002018 11th CDAlan HoweAndrew ShectorDan Meuserjoe PetersAndrew Shector for Congress<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ONPDyi6lorg/WbrL4ygoOgI/AAAAAAAAFlQ/gfthipX11BowNuT2FeaFOHWVGsN9RSkZQCLcBGAs/s1600/17103575_429268447424854_8493593863403987944_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="710" data-original-width="710" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ONPDyi6lorg/WbrL4ygoOgI/AAAAAAAAFlQ/gfthipX11BowNuT2FeaFOHWVGsN9RSkZQCLcBGAs/s320/17103575_429268447424854_8493593863403987944_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Republican Andrew Shecktor of Berwick has decided to switch gears from a Senate race and will enter the 11th CD GOP primary. He joins Dan Meuser as the only announced candidate with Joe Peters teasing that he will run. Alan Howe is the only Democrat in the race so far. An official announcement will be coming shortly. <br /><br /><br />From his website:<br /><br /><i>Andrew Shecktor is a lifelong Pennsylvania resident, born in historical Philadelphia just blocks from the Liberty Bell and raised in Plymouth Meeting. He lives with his wife Jean in Berwick. He is the proud father of 5 grown children, 3 daughters and 2 sons. He is currently a sales manager for the Solid Cactus division of Web.com. Andy was elected to the Berwick Borough Council in 2015. He also sits on the Berwick Planning Commission. <br /><br />Prior to Web.com Andy worked as an electrical engineer for many years. He is a published author of several books. His most recent is "State of the Economy Failure of Healthcare in the US", the companion book to the lecture he does on the same topic. <br /><br />He has been a volunteer for various fire departments for 41 years, and is active in emergency services and military communication. He is also a long time ham radio operator. <br /><br />He was an elected delegate to the Republican National Convention in 2016 and supported our 45th President, Donald Trump. During the election, Andy met 22,000 residents of the 11th Congressional District. This gave him the insight to understand what they expect from an elected official and their frustrations with the current status-quo government. The resounding response was they want their voices heard. Elected officials are elected to represent the people, not the reverse. There needs to be more input from the voters on matters that are voted on in Congress. The rationale for legislation enacted by Congress or by any elected official should be relayed to the public; particularly in instances of controversial legislation. Not everyone will be happy with every decision, but everyone should be able to have their voice heard.&nbsp;</i><br /><br /><br />Website:&nbsp; <br /><h2><a href="https://www.shecktorforcongress.com/" target="_blank">Andrew Shecktor for Congress 2018 11th District, PA</a></h2><h2><span style="font-weight: normal;">&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">FB page:</span></span></h2><h2><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">&nbsp;</span></span></h2><h1 id="seo_h1_tag"><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span class="_33vv"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/shecktorforcongress/">Shecktor for Congress, PA 11th Congressional District</a></span></span></span></h1><h2> </h2>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/09/andrew-shector-for-congress.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-2624455691807467238Fri, 08 Sep 2017 02:27:00 +00002017-09-09T16:47:27.506-04:00119th HD 2018Aaron Kaufergerald mulleryJustin Behrens119th House District- The rematch<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zIuwtqVvHZ4/WbH-Snj_bzI/AAAAAAAAFk8/MMxuDCQKskA2Xrej4fVGmz8NeKN3EfuPQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zIuwtqVvHZ4/WbH-Snj_bzI/AAAAAAAAFk8/MMxuDCQKskA2Xrej4fVGmz8NeKN3EfuPQCLcBGAs/s200/IMG_3860.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jerry Mullery with Aaron Kaufman at the Spring 2012 Blogfest</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br />Republican (?) Justin Behrens took on incumbent&nbsp; Democrat Jerry Mullery&nbsp; in 2016 and lost.<br /><br /><div class="panel-body-party ng-scope"><div class="row"><div class="col-sm-3"><small><span class="spantext ng-binding">MULLERY, GERALD J(DEM)</span><span class="spantext ng-binding" style="padding-top: 8px;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 56.24%&nbsp;</span></small><span class="progress-spantext" style="z-index: 1000 !important;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <span class="spantext ng-binding">Votes:&nbsp;13,760</span></span> </div></div></div><div class="row"><div class="col-sm-3"><small><span class="spantext ng-binding">BEHRENS, JUSTIN VALERA(REP)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><span class="spantext ng-binding" style="padding-top: 8px;">43.76%&nbsp;</span></small><span class="progress-spantext" style="z-index: 1000 !important;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <span class="spantext ng-binding">Votes:&nbsp;10,707</span></span><br /><br /><span class="progress-spantext" style="z-index: 1000 !important;"><span class="spantext ng-binding">Both are running again and have golf tournaments coming up.&nbsp;</span></span><br /><br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/283650085440075/?acontext=%7B%22action_history%22%3A%22[%7B%5C%22surface%5C%22%3A%5C%22page%5C%22%2C%5C%22mechanism%5C%22%3A%5C%22page_upcoming_events_card%5C%22%2C%5C%22extra_data%5C%22%3A[]%7D]%22%2C%22has_source%22%3Atrue%7D" target="_blank"><span class="_4n-j _3cht fsl" data-testid="event-permalink-details">Come out to support Justin Behrens for State Representative in the 119th District in this special event recognizing our Veterans!</span></a><br /><br /><br /><span class="_4n-j _3cht fsl" data-testid="event-permalink-details">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Axd4e_o83Ug/WbH3Qo9LUvI/AAAAAAAAFks/UlWtDW6qyukaFTNi2FS9DdrZYCQIb4b9wCLcBGAs/s1600/justin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="876" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Axd4e_o83Ug/WbH3Qo9LUvI/AAAAAAAAFks/UlWtDW6qyukaFTNi2FS9DdrZYCQIb4b9wCLcBGAs/s320/justin.jpg" width="292" /></a></div><br /><br /><span class="progress-spantext" style="z-index: 1000 !important;"><span class="spantext ng-binding"><br /></span></span>I'm not sure what golf has to do with veterans but that is his angle.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /><br />Not to be outdone Mullery has his own fundraiser on the links<br /><br /><h1 class="_5gmx" data-testid="event-permalink-event-name" id="seo_h1_tag"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/682808625235683/?acontext=%7B%22action_history%22%3A%22[%7B%5C%22surface%5C%22%3A%5C%22page%5C%22%2C%5C%22mechanism%5C%22%3A%5C%22page_upcoming_events_card%5C%22%2C%5C%22extra_data%5C%22%3A[]%7D]%22%2C%22has_source%22%3Atrue%7D" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Rep. Gerald J. Mullery Golf Tournament</span></span></span></a></h1><h1 class="_5gmx" data-testid="event-permalink-event-name" id="seo_h1_tag"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="_4n-j _3cht fsl" data-testid="event-permalink-details">On Friday, September 15, 2017, Citizens for Mullery is hosting a golf tournament fundraiser at Valley Country Club in Sugarloaf, PA. The tournament promises to be a fun event and a wonderful opportunity to play one of the regions finest courses, all while supporting a true advocate for the citizens of the 119th Legislative District, State Representative Gerald J. Mullery</span></span></span><br /><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></span></h1></div><div class="col-sm-3 pull-left"></div><div class="col-sm-3 pull-left"><span class="progress-spantext" style="z-index: 1000 !important;"><span class="spantext ng-binding">&nbsp;</span></span> </div></div>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/09/119th-house-district-rematch.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-5666567523034177178Wed, 06 Sep 2017 21:46:00 +00002017-09-06T17:46:34.101-04:002018 11th CDChris CarneyChris HackettDan MeuserLou BarlettaTarah ToohilDan Meuser for Congress<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WAi5eeLi8u8/WbBriokGwYI/AAAAAAAAFkc/hbPWHBtOrFMk24LEX8AceWE0v6MnLK9ZACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WAi5eeLi8u8/WbBriokGwYI/AAAAAAAAFkc/hbPWHBtOrFMk24LEX8AceWE0v6MnLK9ZACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_3226.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dan Meuser with Lisa Baker at the Fall 2010 Blogfest</td></tr></tbody></table>Here we go go again. Former PA Revenue Secretary and failed 2008 PA 10th CD Republican primary candidate Dan Meuser is running to succeed Lou Barletta. He was flirting with a run for PA Lt. Governor but a better opportunity arose. His announcement has already knocked Tarah Toohil out of the race.&nbsp; He is tying himself to Barletta and Trump. <br /><br />To refresh you memory Dan Meuser and Chris Hackett had a knock down, drag out primary fight to oppose Chris Carney. They both spent over $1 million and Hackett won only to lose the general election. There was a lot of bad blood after that election and many Meuser supporters told me they couldn't support Hackett.<br /><br />His campaign slogan seemed to be Pride Mobility for Congress. So every problem the company had in the past became&nbsp; fair game for his opponent<br /><br />Some of the controversies:<br /><br /><a href="http://gort42.blogspot.com/2007/08/dan-meuser-update.html" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">EXETE</span>R:</a> <span style="color: #666666;">A woman formerly employed at Pride Mobility Products Corp. has filed a wage discrimination lawsuit against the company, alleging she was paid less than male counterparts who performed the same job. </span><span style="color: black;">She also is alleging sexual <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">harassment</span> and retaliation for complaining about it.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: black;">&nbsp;</span><a href="http://electioncentral.tpmcafe.com/blog/electioncentral/2007/jun/28/happy_hour_roundup"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">TPM</span> Cafe</a>: <em><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Meuser's</span> company has settled a contentious lawsuit over the death of an elderly man using their wheelchair, in which plaintiffs alleged that a defective battery caused a fire. From the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Monterey</span> County Herald, January 9, 2007: "Had the case gone to trial, according to court records and statements in court, jurors may have heard evidence that <strong>Pride Mobility was aware of at least 18 other fires in its wheelchairs and scooters with identical battery packs since 2002. Ten of those fires destroyed dwellings and five were fatal."</strong> (From Nexis).</em><br /><br /><em>&nbsp;</em>The <a href="http://oig.hhs.gov/testimony/docs/2004/042804fin.pdf">Medicare <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">OIG</span></a> fined Pride $80,000 for a kickback scheme.<br /><br />And his past <a href="http://gort42.blogspot.com/2007/08/dan-meuser-update.html" target="_blank">political contributions:</a>&nbsp; <br /><br />&nbsp;<em>On behalf of the Pennsylvania Democratic Party, I wanted to thank you for your kind, past contributions to strong Democrats such as Congressman Paul <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Kanjorski</span>, Senator Hillary Clinton, Congressman Charlie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Rangel</span> and many others. Your contributions have helped Democrats to take back the House and Senate in 2006 and potentially take the White House in 2008.</em><br /><br />I have a big basket of this stuff if any other campaign is interested.<br /><br /><br />&nbsp;Many thanks to Tiffany Cloud for sending this:<br /><br /><b id="yui_3_16_0_1_1504734170783_2534">Dan Meuser To Run For 11th Congressional District Seat</b><br /><br /><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1504734170783_2557" style="text-align: center;"><i id="yui_3_16_0_1_1504734170783_2556">Businessman and Former Revenue Secretary To Continue Barletta’s Work</i></div><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1504734170783_2557" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1504734170783_2557" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1504734170783_2418"> Luzerne County Businessman and former Secretary of the Department of Revenue Dan Meuser announced today that he was entering the race to represent the 11th District in the United States Congress. Congressman Lou Barletta announced days ago that he would run for the United States Senate.<br /><br /> “I have always supported Lou Barletta and I plan to continue to support him in his run for the United States Senate,” Dan Meuser said. “Both Lou and I will fight for an agenda that puts America’s interests first and rebuilds the middle class so the economy works for everyone.”<br /><br /> Dan has lived in the area that makes up the 11th District for over 25 years, he and his wife of 27 years raising their family in the district. Dan joined Pride Healthcare, based in Luzerne County and now called Pride Mobility Products, in 1988. Dan became President of Pride Mobility, USA in 2001. Pride has become the leading manufacturer of power mobility and complex rehabdevices in the country, and employs over 800 people in Northeast Pennsylvania.<br /><br /> "I've spent 25 years in the private sector helping create thousands of jobs. During this time my wife and I supported many important causes including the YMCA, local colleges, the Back Mountain Recreation Association and the Wyoming County Children's Association,” Meuser said.<br /><br /> In 2010, Dan was appointed and unanimously confirmed Secretary of the Dept. of Revenue. Dan and his team worked to reform the department, implement customer-first policies, and treat taxpayers like customers. Under Dan’s leadership, the Department was named the most improved Department of Revenue in the country and received a grade improvement from a D+ to an A- from the Council on State Taxation.<br /><br /> “We worked day in and day out to make sure that everyone knew that it was taxpayers who came first at the Department of Revenue,” Meuser said. “Our team reformed the department and turned it into a taxpayer advocacy agency, rather than a mere collector of taxes.”<br /><br /> Dan Meuser is running first and foremost because he loves his country and wants to continue to serve his community. Dan will be a consistent conservative voice in Washington, making sure that he takes the values of the 11th District to Washington every day. Dan will be an advocate for an economy that works for everyone, a healthcare system that provides access and affordability without the heavy handed federal mandates of Obamacare, and a strong military ready to defeat ISIS and any other threat to our nation, and to secure our borders.<br /><br /> “I’m a constitutional conservative who will always put the needs of America first,” Meuser said. “I want to restore our broken political system by always working on behalf of the people of the 11th District.”<br /><br /> Dan also believes that the next Congressman must be accessible to the people he serves.<br /><br /> “I will be very engaged and constituent focused, making sure that I am accessible and transparent,” Meuser said. “That means being involved in resolving issues, large and small, throughout the district.”<br /><br /> Dan will be traveling the 11th District visiting each county over the next 2 weeks.</div><br /><em> </em>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/09/dan-meuser-for-congress.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-8343970077111217931Fri, 01 Sep 2017 01:24:00 +00002017-08-31T21:24:35.926-04:0011th CDAlan HoweLou BarlettaAlan Howe for Congress<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cPQzROKpGxU/WaiyYO1RgSI/AAAAAAAAFkA/c0Fzvlc3ktICpbuyCr4-KnaM_OBiSb2pwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC00734%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cPQzROKpGxU/WaiyYO1RgSI/AAAAAAAAFkA/c0Fzvlc3ktICpbuyCr4-KnaM_OBiSb2pwCLcBGAs/s200/DSC00734%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Kirby Park </td></tr></tbody></table>With Lou Barletta deciding to run for Senate there is a lot of speculation about who will run in the PA 11th Congressional District. I'm going to resist getting into all that and cover candidates that have actually announced that they are running.<br /><br />Alan Howe is a USAF veteran who rose to the top enlisted rank of Chief Master Sergeant. That's E-10 for my friends that are vets of the other services. He lives in Carlisle with his wife and dogs and is an avid fly fisherman.<br /><br />He entered the race as a Democrat a few months ago before Barletta decided he needs a promotion.<br /><br />From his <a href="https://howeforpa11.org/" target="_blank">website</a>:<br /><br /><h3>We must help our local communities grow</h3>Our nation was founded on the idea of equality for all and the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. To help protect those rights, we formed a Democracy that had as its principle aims: “to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity.”<br />Your Representative to the US House should be working diligently on these tasks. He or she should be making sure that your government does things for you, not to you. You should see, hear from, and talk to your Representative routinely. You should know that your Representative is doing right by you, your community, and your nation.<br />Twenty-five years ago, the Air Force asked me to internalize the core values of “Integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do.” You can expect that as your Representative, I will to the right thing always for our district and for our nation, and I will do it as well as it can be done.<br />As a candidate, I am hard at work traveling throughout the 11th District to hear from as many of you as I can. As your elected Representative, I will continue to work hard to craft and sponsor policies to see that your government does its best for you—just as it should, so you can enjoy life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness with your family and friends.<br /><br />Facebook page: &nbsp; <br /><h5 class="_5pbw _5vra _11dd" data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;C&quot;}" id="js_4t"><span class="fwn fcg"><span class="fwb fcg" data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;k&quot;}"><a data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard-referer="ARSvIxkRjzKwrXl7qD0nLOGECHxP9u1abHP9uoHQ9D4pYxP-9Q9n055zIX-hzK-XWpI" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=1834096226916889&amp;extragetparams=%7B%22hc_ref%22%3A%22ARSvIxkRjzKwrXl7qD0nLOGECHxP9u1abHP9uoHQ9D4pYxP-9Q9n055zIX-hzK-XWpI%22%2C%22fref%22%3A%22nf%22%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/Howeforpa11/?hc_ref=ARSvIxkRjzKwrXl7qD0nLOGECHxP9u1abHP9uoHQ9D4pYxP-9Q9n055zIX-hzK-XWpI&amp;fref=nf" id="js_2oc">Alan Howe for Pennsylvania's 11th Congressional District</a></span></span></h5><h5 class="_5pbw _5vra _11dd" data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;C&quot;}" id="js_4t"><span class="fwn fcg"><span class="fwb fcg" data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;k&quot;}">&nbsp;</span></span></h5><h5 class="_5pbw _5vra _11dd" data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;C&quot;}" id="js_4t"><span class="fwn fcg"><span class="fwb fcg" data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;k&quot;}">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g4fNG7mATmg/Wai1-fL6jgI/AAAAAAAAFkM/dPq1zethOtEIkedAgP2-Dj28xWzYGtjagCLcBGAs/s1600/static1.squarespace.com.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g4fNG7mATmg/Wai1-fL6jgI/AAAAAAAAFkM/dPq1zethOtEIkedAgP2-Dj28xWzYGtjagCLcBGAs/s320/static1.squarespace.com.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></span></span></h5>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/08/alan-howe-for-congress.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-1196265539645425475Wed, 30 Aug 2017 19:56:00 +00002017-08-30T15:56:00.267-04:00Aryanna BerringerJohn FethermanKathi CozzoneLt GovMike StackKathi Cozzone for Lt. GovernorPresent Lt. Gov of PA Mike Stack is in all sorts of hot water lately. From billing the taxpayers for hotels in Philadelphia, catering bills and mistreating state troopers and other state employees. He owns a house in Philly.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.philly.com/philly/news/politics/state/Embattled-Lt-Gov-Mike-Stack-could-get--.html" target="_blank">Aryanna Berringer </a>has already announced a challenge and Bradford Mayor John Fetterman is thinking about it.<br /><br />This dropped into my inbox a few days ago. Someone on her staff must remember my glory days of blogging.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R1PxhN9Wxsc/WacXP7QlBNI/AAAAAAAAFjw/l66kzbFw18AanfIPiF37VaKwJfoRr0hAgCLcBGAs/s1600/image001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="489" data-original-width="1278" height="122" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R1PxhN9Wxsc/WacXP7QlBNI/AAAAAAAAFjw/l66kzbFw18AanfIPiF37VaKwJfoRr0hAgCLcBGAs/s320/image001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div align="center" class="yiv3462987434MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16145" style="text-align: center;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16160"><b id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16159"><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16158" style="font-size: 20.0pt;">Chester County Commissioner Kathi Cozzone Announces bid for Lt. Governor of Pennsylvania</span></b></span></div><div align="center" class="yiv3462987434MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16146" style="text-align: center;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16157"><i id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16156"><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16155" style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Cozzone brings government experience, business acumen and a record of bi-partisan accomplishments to a potential Wolf/Cozzone Ticket</span></i></span></div><div align="center" class="yiv3462987434MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16146" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="yiv3462987434MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16153"><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16152">West Chester, PA – Surrounded by supporters in Chester County, County Commissioner Kathi Cozzone announced her bid for Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania today at the Historic Courthouse in downtown West Chester.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16225" name="_Hlk490938848" rel="nofollow">“Today, I ask the voters of the Democratic Party of Pennsylvania to support a new partner for Governor Wolf,” said Cozzone, announcing her bid. “The Governor needs an accomplished elected official who knows how to work in a bipartisan manner to produce real results, to serve with him in Harrisburg.&nbsp; </a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16227" name="_Hlk490949223" rel="nofollow"><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16226">He, and our Party, need a strong ticket in the fall to ensure our success at the ballot box and to help advance the Governor’s agenda in the hearts and minds of Pennsylvanians.&nbsp; I believe I have the skills and the record to serve on that ticket, and be that partner for Governor Wolf.”</span></a><span></span></span></div><div class="yiv3462987434MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16228"><span><span> &nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="yiv3462987434MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16231"><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16230"><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16229">“Like Governor Wolf, my background before running for public office is in the business world.&nbsp; I have spent 10 years learning how real-world principles can be applied to government to improve the lives of our citizens.&nbsp; I have also learned that governing is a unique skill requiring experience and practice.&nbsp; That is why I believe my balance of private and public sector experience will make me an asset to Governor Wolf’s administration.</span></span></div><div align="center" class="yiv3462987434MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1504119631931_16146" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/08/kathi-cozzone-for-lt-governor.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-1418379025184665103Tue, 29 Aug 2017 22:47:00 +00002017-08-29T19:41:41.746-04:00Chris PerryGreg WolovichHarry HaasLuzerne County CouncilMarc DixonStephen UrbanLuzerne County Council-The RepublicansA list of the Republican candidates with links.<br /><br />Marc Dixon<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FWl1uO9ZYnQ/WaXsE_jAp8I/AAAAAAAAFjM/seN-cuWAteM83NFVJoWUrCLuR82c7kK0gCLcBGAs/s1600/16730426_1099050110218207_1371981728936060391_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FWl1uO9ZYnQ/WaXsE_jAp8I/AAAAAAAAFjM/seN-cuWAteM83NFVJoWUrCLuR82c7kK0gCLcBGAs/s320/16730426_1099050110218207_1371981728936060391_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/friendsofmarcdixon/" target="_blank">Marc Dixon for Luzerne County</a><br />No website<br /><br />Greg Wolovich<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x7LRilLiwps/WaXs95hYooI/AAAAAAAAFjU/cLq7U9tsDUgRmmTcsXOU1CyN4XSXq9VlwCLcBGAs/s1600/17630091_1772728699722161_6642311675170009909_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x7LRilLiwps/WaXs95hYooI/AAAAAAAAFjU/cLq7U9tsDUgRmmTcsXOU1CyN4XSXq9VlwCLcBGAs/s320/17630091_1772728699722161_6642311675170009909_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />Facebook: <a class="_hli" data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;k&quot;}" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=1724917984503233" href="https://www.facebook.com/wolovichforlcc/" id="js_lbu">Greg Wolovich for Luzerne County Council</a><br />No website<br /><br />Harry Haas<br /><br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X5iLbg1X9hk/WaXu73q0hWI/AAAAAAAAFjg/KzsGflzZMYglylABAsEtxCV3pSiXjLUCACLcBGAs/s1600/524883_488042727919011_1718892757_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="273" data-original-width="273" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X5iLbg1X9hk/WaXu73q0hWI/AAAAAAAAFjg/KzsGflzZMYglylABAsEtxCV3pSiXjLUCACLcBGAs/s1600/524883_488042727919011_1718892757_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Facebook: <span class="_33vv"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Haas-for-Luzerne-County-Council-159067390816548/">Haas for Luzerne County Council</a></span><br /><span class="_33vv">Website: <a href="http://www.harryhaas.com/" target="_blank">Harry Haas </a></span><br /><span class="_33vv"><br /></span><span class="_33vv">Chris Perry</span><br /><span class="_33vv">No FB page or website</span><br /><span class="_33vv"><br /></span><span class="_33vv">Stephen Urban</span><br /><span class="_33vv">No FB page or website</span>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/08/luzrne-county-concil-republicans.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-6435063262993487877Mon, 28 Aug 2017 22:21:00 +00002017-08-29T18:03:53.853-04:00John GadomskiLinda HouckLuzerne County CouncilMatt Voughsheila saidmanWendy CominskyLuzerne County Council-The DemocratsI have had the good fortune of meeting all of the Luzerne County Council candidates of the years. Most of them recently and for a few it's been a while. Here is a rundown:<br /><br />The top vote getters in the primary:<br /><br />17254 votes cast in the Republican primary<br /><br />1. Harry Haas (Inc)<br />2. Chris Perry<br />3. Marc Dixon<br />4. Stephen J Urban<br /><span style="font-size: small;">&nbsp;5. Greg Wolovich</span><br /><br />23480 votes cast in the Democratic primary<br /><br />1. Sheila Saidman<br />2. Linda Houck(Inc) <br />3. Wendy Cominsky<br />4. Matt Vough<br />5. John Gadomsky<br /><br />Only 6000+ votes more Democratic votes than Republicans.<br /><br />Some links and obserations.<br /><br />Wendy Cominsky &nbsp;<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rju0Mrigcgo/WaSNkjwhNgI/AAAAAAAAFiw/N9cqwjDQBWweQi0STE51XJFqfTKyf-BFACLcBGAs/s1600/wendy-cominsky-headshot-2-214x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="214" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rju0Mrigcgo/WaSNkjwhNgI/AAAAAAAAFiw/N9cqwjDQBWweQi0STE51XJFqfTKyf-BFACLcBGAs/s1600/wendy-cominsky-headshot-2-214x300.jpg" /></a></div><br />Website:&nbsp; <a href="http://wendycominsky.com/" target="_blank">Wendy Cominsky</a><a href="http://wendycominsky.com/" target="_blank"> for <span class="green"><nobr>Luzerne County</nobr> Council</span></a><br />&nbsp;Facebook:<a href="https://www.facebook.com/WCominskyLCC/" target="_blank"> Wendy Cominsky for Luzerne County Council</a><br /><br />Matt Vough<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_FjS7emCEHI/WaSQheHD8dI/AAAAAAAAFi8/tv10D6t70EUsctSJwD9TkhXc1R6lsZsUACLcBGAs/s1600/mattt%2Bv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="392" data-original-width="392" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_FjS7emCEHI/WaSQheHD8dI/AAAAAAAAFi8/tv10D6t70EUsctSJwD9TkhXc1R6lsZsUACLcBGAs/s320/mattt%2Bv.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Website:<a href="https://www.votevough.com/" target="_blank"> Matt Vough Luzerne County Council </a><br />Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/voughlcc17/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel" target="_blank">Matt Vough Luzerne County Council</a><br /><br />Linda Houck<br /><br /><br /><br />Facebook:Ll<a href="https://www.facebook.com/lmhouck4council/">inda Mcclosky Houck for Luzerne County Council</a><br />No website<br /><br />John Gadomsky<br /><br />Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JohnPGadomski/" target="_blank">John Gadomsky for Luzerne County Council</a><br />No website<br /><br />Sheila Saidman<br /><br />Facebook: <a href="http://Sheila Saidman for Luzerne County Council" target="_blank">Sheila Saidmain for Luzerne County Council</a><br />No website<br /><br />That's it for the Democrats. Republicans coming up. <br /><h6 class="_5pbw _5vra _11dd" data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;C&quot;}" id="js_q3p"><span class="fwn fcg"><span class="fcg"><span class="fwb"><br /></span></span></span></h6>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/08/luzerne-county-council.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-8879577208338113485Sat, 05 Aug 2017 01:18:00 +00002017-08-04T21:18:07.382-04:00Mark's Pubthe committeeThe Popular FrontW-BMark's Pub has been sold<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gnKDKzaxsU8/WYUcez1Tu-I/AAAAAAAAFic/2JwCL3JtF5o4FvnLUPF4hXEfi6XiTyKTwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC00754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gnKDKzaxsU8/WYUcez1Tu-I/AAAAAAAAFic/2JwCL3JtF5o4FvnLUPF4hXEfi6XiTyKTwCLcBGAs/s320/DSC00754.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Mark's Pub on N. Washington St. in Wilkes-Barre has been the venue of choice of the Saturday OT Committee and Operatic Society&nbsp; and Gort42 fans for many gathering over the years. We were all heartbroken when the owner and good friend Mark Rogers passed away at an early age.<br /><br />Now it looks like Marks' family has found a buyer. The Liquor License application was hard to read but it's either Guri, LLC or Gurl, LLC. I need to check out the property transfers.<br /><br />The Committee and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Nescopeck Pass wish the new owners every success and look forward to having a cocktail there soon.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n-jb9wypujE/WYUcnGo8uSI/AAAAAAAAFig/3x2dsbrUm7wxGzpPPeygyId2t0wuCiEPACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC00753%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="883" data-original-width="1600" height="176" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n-jb9wypujE/WYUcnGo8uSI/AAAAAAAAFig/3x2dsbrUm7wxGzpPPeygyId2t0wuCiEPACLcBGAs/s320/DSC00753%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/08/marks-pub-has-been-sold.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-1773943857512781028Thu, 03 Aug 2017 23:10:00 +00002017-08-03T19:10:00.695-04:00immigrationNorth EndW-BImmigrationThis comment was on a FB friend's wall. She may want to do some research, outside of Paris many people spoke to me in broken English and I answered in ridiculous French <br /><br /><span class=""><a class=" UFICommentActorName" data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;;&quot;}" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/hovercard.php?id=1563461982&amp;extragetparams=%7B%22is_public%22%3Afalse%2C%22hc_location%22%3A%22ufi%22%7D" dir="ltr" href="https://www.facebook.com/patricia.c.oreilly?fref=ufi" id="js_ojn">Patricia Collins O'Reill<span style="color: #134f5c;">y</span></a></span><span style="color: #134f5c;"> <span style="color: #38761d;"> <span data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;K&quot;}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span>Please don't tell me that President Obama didn't have an ego. He was Mr. Slick. If you go back in American history, people that immigrated in the late 1800's or early 1900's had to pass a lot more than what President Trump is asking for. If people want to immigrate here, then follow the rules. Why do people that have lived here for 20 years still speak only Spanish - because we accept it - we have special education for people with English as a Second Language. When you live in a country, you should conform to their ways. Go to Germany or France and see how they refuse to speak English to visitors - they know it but won't. All we ask is that people are not wards of the state. That was the phrase that was on my mother and father's immigration permission letter in 1925 when they came to this country.</span></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><br /><span><span><span data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;K&quot;}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span>&nbsp;This caught my eye and reminded me of my childhood growing up in the North End of Wilkes-Barre.</span></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><span><span data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;K&quot;}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span>&nbsp;</span></span></span></span><span><span><span data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;K&quot;}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span>Why do people that have lived here for 20 years still speak only Spanish&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fKoaLGYN-Os/WYOtLFcnplI/AAAAAAAAFiM/s75a4SD_cBk283eVBwUJ3A-iVdT88IePgCLcBGAs/s1600/sacret%2Bheart.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fKoaLGYN-Os/WYOtLFcnplI/AAAAAAAAFiM/s75a4SD_cBk283eVBwUJ3A-iVdT88IePgCLcBGAs/s320/sacret%2Bheart.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><span><span><span data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;K&quot;}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span>From an earlier post:</span></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span><span><span data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;K&quot;}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span>&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></span>I grew up the north end of Wilkes-Barre. In the 1960's people spoke language's I didn't understand. There were stores I had had a hard time buying things because I didn't know Russian or Slovak. I miss that. Yes Grandma didn't speak English but her kids did. And their kids were fluent in the English language but couldn't speak the the native tongue. What a loss. My father encouraged me to learn a different language and after 4 years of taking French I went to France. I wish I had paid attention because I had no idea what they were talking about.<br /><br />My point is that the immigrants of today will assimilate just like our grandparents did. Even if the first generation doesn't grasp the language the next will. <br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><span><span><span data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;K&quot;}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span>&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/08/immigration.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-4210975907847841579Mon, 31 Jul 2017 21:11:00 +00002017-07-31T17:11:01.947-04:0011th CD2018 PA SenateAlan HoweDonald TrumpPA SenateRick SantorumLou Barletta for Senate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cnz4YkXEfgU/WX-NKc37YWI/AAAAAAAAFho/QbtmDTRDzjk_PLyWNA9CaZEG5_aucGoRgCLcBGAs/s1600/zzzzzastrump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="572" data-original-width="640" height="178" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cnz4YkXEfgU/WX-NKc37YWI/AAAAAAAAFho/QbtmDTRDzjk_PLyWNA9CaZEG5_aucGoRgCLcBGAs/s200/zzzzzastrump.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>If the reports are true PA 11th CD Rep Lou Barletta of Hazleton&nbsp; is running for the US Senate against incumbent Bob Casey of Scranton in 2018. After Rick Santorum flamed out in the 2016 primary Lou endorsed Donald Trump and has been a big supporter ever since. Many people say that Trump has <a href="http://citizensvoice.com/news/trump-urges-barletta-to-challenge-casey-1.2188617" target="_blank">urged him </a>to get into the race. <br /><br />Barletta getting into the Senate race will probably knock out a few of the minor Republican candidates but I doubt he will have a clear field.<br /><br />On the other hand the next primary&nbsp; election in the&nbsp; Pennsylvania 11th Congressional District will be a donnybrook on both sides.<br /><br />The only declared candidate in the 11th CD until now was Democrat <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Howeforpa11/" target="_blank">Alan Howe.&nbsp;</a><br />That will change in the next few days.<br /><br />The Republicans have a deep bench in a district that stretches from Wyoming County to down past Harrisburg and Carlisle. There are many Republican Legislators and County officials that will be looking for a promotion.<br /><br />Of course some rich guy/girl&nbsp; who could self finance might&nbsp; get in on it.<br /><br /><br />My archive/oppo research on Barletta<br /><br /><a href="http://gort42.blogspot.com/search?q=lou+barletta" target="_blank">Here</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />&nbsp; <br /><br />http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/07/lou-barletta-for-senate.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-5250554532859433516Tue, 18 Jul 2017 21:37:00 +00002017-07-18T17:46:03.355-04:0010th CDJudy HerschelScott BrionTom MarinoIs Tom Marino running for reelection?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lq5kl8DUe4Q/WW5zR43BbjI/AAAAAAAAFhI/LPoGbfaFwSI_ocOKGiTNojIPwnP9m1zowCLcBGAs/s1600/Marino.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="140" data-original-width="209" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lq5kl8DUe4Q/WW5zR43BbjI/AAAAAAAAFhI/LPoGbfaFwSI_ocOKGiTNojIPwnP9m1zowCLcBGAs/s1600/Marino.jpg" /></a></div>In his latest <a href="https://www.fec.gov/data/reports/house-senate/?is_amended=false&amp;data_type=processed&amp;committee_id=C00475145&amp;cycle=2018" target="_blank">FEC filing</a> Republican <a href="https://marino.house.gov/" target="_blank">Rep.Tom Marino</a>&nbsp; (PA-10) reports that his campaign raised only $3500 in the 2nd quarter of 2017 and has $113K cash on hand. Even a candidate in a safe seat usually raises a lot of money and hands it off to competitive campaigns. His <a href="http://www.tommarinoforcongress.com/" target="_blank">campaign site</a> has not been updated since January and the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/TomMarinoForCongress/photos/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> has been dormant.<br /><br />2016 Democratic candidate <a href="https://www.facebook.com/scottbrionforcongress/" target="_blank">Scott Brion</a> is running again but has not <a href="https://www.fec.gov/data/reports/house-senate/?is_amended=false&amp;data_type=processed&amp;committee_id=C00557694&amp;cycle=2018" target="_blank">raised much money.</a><br /><br />Another Democratic candidate announced on July 5th.<br /><br /><h1 itemprop="headline"><a href="http://www.dailyitem.com/news/counselor-announces-candidacy-for-seat-in-th/article_35d8e86a-6195-11e7-bf4d-b784877c6291.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Counselor announces candidacy for seat in 10th&nbsp;</span></span></a></h1><h1 itemprop="headline"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5NvG0V2g-ig/WW5_Om0temI/AAAAAAAAFhU/L56NyKaeoHQu2p7qhxV3WzmHfFx6EQ3qACLcBGAs/s1600/Judy%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="504" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5NvG0V2g-ig/WW5_Om0temI/AAAAAAAAFhU/L56NyKaeoHQu2p7qhxV3WzmHfFx6EQ3qACLcBGAs/s200/Judy%2B2.jpg" width="178" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">&nbsp;&nbsp; </span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Fid_8">“This is something I’ve always wanted to do,” said Judith Herschel, shortly before she was due toride in a Fourth of July parade in Montrose. This is her first foray into elective politics. She is a certified drug and</span><span class="Fid_8">&nbsp;alcohol counselor....<b>...</b></span>Under the proposed new health care bill, she said,&nbsp;“those recovering from substance use disorders will lose access to the necessary support that is required to recover from this devastating disease, and that affects all of us. It is imperative that we expand programs and access for individuals who suffer from mental and behavioral health issues, particularly our veterans. The new proposed bill affects most everyone and hits the most vulnerable the hardest. Children will go without food, and our elderly and disabled neighbors will go without medications, fuel assistance and medical care.”</span></span></h1><h1 itemprop="headline"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">&nbsp;Her Facebook page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JHcampaign/" target="_blank">Judy Herschel for US Congress&nbsp;</a></span></span></h1><h1 itemprop="headline"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">&nbsp;Website:<a href="https://www.jhcampaign.com/" target="_blank"> Judy Herschel for US Congress&nbsp;</a></span></span></h1><h1 itemprop="headline"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">&nbsp;</span></span></h1><h1 itemprop="headline"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/jerry.kairnes/" target="_blank">H/T to Jerry Kairnes </a></span></span></h1>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/07/is-tom-marino-running-for-reelection.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-6361578878260906034Mon, 17 Jul 2017 22:06:00 +00002017-07-17T18:06:00.868-04:00Mitch McConnell1000 words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QrysyiGrKa4/WW00qBb4JgI/AAAAAAAAFhA/34vhM54vkUkvhECIqS5UXUWJVFOPesWRACLcBGAs/s1600/trump%2BFire%2BTruck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="362" data-original-width="654" height="354" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QrysyiGrKa4/WW00qBb4JgI/AAAAAAAAFhA/34vhM54vkUkvhECIqS5UXUWJVFOPesWRACLcBGAs/s640/trump%2BFire%2BTruck.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/07/1000-words.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-6414928648894612349Sat, 08 Jul 2017 21:15:00 +00002017-07-08T17:22:28.653-04:00Opioid epidemic and Medicaid&nbsp;This is now working backwards. From Facebook<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N-9EQURVnvI/WWFM_9ankSI/AAAAAAAAFgw/epaA1bOqLPYDOUK65ZRbbj3oIT2R7MmtQCLcBGAs/s1600/pills.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N-9EQURVnvI/WWFM_9ankSI/AAAAAAAAFgw/epaA1bOqLPYDOUK65ZRbbj3oIT2R7MmtQCLcBGAs/s1600/pills.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />Listening to Sue Henry who has our representatives talking about the opioid epidemic and cuts in Medicaid. Apparently, those who<span class="text_exposed_show"> support the philosophy of the Republican Party don't have relatives who have addictions or who are intellectually disabled or old. Well, aren't you a lucky buck. Have you got a solution to this problem? How to stop addiction, prevent intellectual disabilities and stop people from growing old? Other than needing revenue to finance it?<br /> Come on now, you voted for Trump. Give me a solution. Bet you can't.-</span><br /><br /><span class="text_exposed_show"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/beverly.j.johnston?fref=nf&amp;pnref=story" target="_blank">Bev </a></span><br /><br />http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/07/opioid-epidemic-and-medicaid.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-1526801570520322737Wed, 05 Jul 2017 22:06:00 +00002017-07-05T18:06:34.525-04:00117th DistrictLuzerne County Young DemocratsLuzerne County Young RepublicansYoung Dems getting together This is great.&nbsp; <span><span class="_33vv"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/LCYDems/">Luzerne County Young Democrats&nbsp; are having a meeting at </a></span></span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/LCYDems/"><br /></a><br /><div class="_6a _6b"><a class="_5xhk" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=83151977955" data-testid="event-permalink-location" href="https://www.facebook.com/RODANOSFRANKLINSDOWNTOWN/" id="u_jsonp_8_j">Rodano's</a><div class="_5xhp fsm fwn fcg">53 Public Square, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania 18701</div><div class="_5xhp fsm fwn fcg"><div class="_publicProdFeedInfo__timeRowTitle _5xhk" content="2017-07-27T15:00:00-07:00"><span><span itemprop="startDate">Thursday, July 27</span></span> at <span>6 PM</span></div><div class="_publicProdFeedInfo__timeRowTitle _5xhk" content="2017-07-27T15:00:00-07:00"><span>&nbsp;</span></div><div class="_publicProdFeedInfo__timeRowTitle _5xhk" content="2017-07-27T15:00:00-07:00"><h1 class="_5gmx" data-testid="event-permalink-event-name" id="seo_h1_tag"><a href="http://LCYD Meeting at Rodano's" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">LCYD Meeting at Rodano's&nbsp; </span></span></a></h1><span style="font-size: small;"><span>&nbsp;</span></span><span class="_4n-j _3cht fsl" data-testid="event-permalink-details">A night to celebrate local Democrats, engage in current events, and increase membership in the LCYD!</span></div><div class="_publicProdFeedInfo__timeRowTitle _5xhk" content="2017-07-27T15:00:00-07:00"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>&nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="_publicProdFeedInfo__timeRowTitle _5xhk" content="2017-07-27T15:00:00-07:00"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>&nbsp;</span></span></div>&nbsp;I have always been a supporter of our local chapters of the<a href="https://www.facebook.com/LCYDems" target="_blank"> Young Democrats</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Luzerne-County-Young-Republicans/200159330044063?fref=ts" target="_blank">Young Republicans</a> in Luzerne County . Both outfits have been&nbsp; very generous to me over the years.<br /><br />&nbsp;Just looking at their Facebook pages they both have been dormant for a while so it's good to see one of the organizations getting back in gear</div><div class="_5xhp fsm fwn fcg">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </div><div class="_5xhp fsm fwn fcg"><br /></div><div class="_5xhp fsm fwn fcg"><br /></div><div class="_5xhp fsm fwn fcg"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><div class="_6a _6b"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UBOh4AgBtrQ/WV1gBcknRxI/AAAAAAAAFgY/2le7Mef-YSQpS3VvUd9EhQiJy7cCDz-9ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UBOh4AgBtrQ/WV1gBcknRxI/AAAAAAAAFgY/2le7Mef-YSQpS3VvUd9EhQiJy7cCDz-9ACLcBGAs/s200/IMG_0450.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="_5xhp fsm fwn fcg"><br /></div><div class="_5xhp fsm fwn fcg"><br /></div><div class="_5xhp fsm fwn fcg"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SWiIddULfKg/WV1ivMLDa0I/AAAAAAAAFgg/Otv3g0-4kNoxZG_iA7ljbRZg7JBZcQr0gCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC00591%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SWiIddULfKg/WV1ivMLDa0I/AAAAAAAAFgg/Otv3g0-4kNoxZG_iA7ljbRZg7JBZcQr0gCLcBGAs/s200/DSC00591%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a>President: Beth Gilbert<br /> Vice President: Dominick Butchko<br /> Secretary: Matthew Ford<br /> Treasurer: Kyle Kocher <br /> Immediate Past President: Thomas Shubilla</div></div>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/07/young-dems-getting-together.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-5885715313728861613Sun, 04 Jun 2017 01:36:00 +00002017-06-03T21:48:05.934-04:00This is why we do itTo make a difference for our kids.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P3iDeeujJQg/WTNjldnalOI/AAAAAAAAFf8/W7I08-LmEUouLhvPfQY5kng7qxyrJkWtgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P3iDeeujJQg/WTNjldnalOI/AAAAAAAAFf8/W7I08-LmEUouLhvPfQY5kng7qxyrJkWtgCLcB/s320/IMG_1451.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some politicians with some kids.&nbsp;</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />The whole idea is to give them a better world than we found it.</td></tr></tbody></table>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/06/this-is-why-we-do-it.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-16709255486567708Tue, 30 May 2017 23:48:00 +00002017-05-30T19:48:22.439-04:00John GadomskiLuzerne County CouncilMarc Dixon. Wendy CominskyMatt VoughLuzerne County CouncilThe thing about the the latest Luzurne County Council race was the lack of acrimony. With a few exceptions the candidates avoided trying to tear down their opponents. It was a race about ideas to make our county a better place to live.<br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PF2NMXYk2Ik/WS4EXbhrC0I/AAAAAAAAFfs/CzYolMSAMbYzOwLGNpFBwZLO_4BLBnzAgCLcB/s1600/DSC00463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PF2NMXYk2Ik/WS4EXbhrC0I/AAAAAAAAFfs/CzYolMSAMbYzOwLGNpFBwZLO_4BLBnzAgCLcB/s200/DSC00463.JPG" width="200" /></a><br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NO_qg8IN8TM/WS4CLhAsRsI/AAAAAAAAFfk/LgxF7n9DAm8WktQyKUKtTXS0-A1ydpYaQCEw/s1600/IMG_1380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NO_qg8IN8TM/WS4CLhAsRsI/AAAAAAAAFfk/LgxF7n9DAm8WktQyKUKtTXS0-A1ydpYaQCEw/s200/IMG_1380.JPG" width="200" /></a>The 2 people that impressed me most were Republican Marc Dixon and Democrat Wendy Cominsky. They have some ideas to improve <br />our lives and are running to do something not be somebody. You may disagree with them but they will listen to your ideas and try to come to a solution.<br /><br />On the Republican side 5 candidates advanced for 5 seats. Incumbent Harry Haas may just win another term.<span class="fwn fcg"><span class="fwb fcg" data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;;&quot;}"><a class="_wpv" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=567068884&amp;extragetparams=%7B%22fref%22%3A%22nf%22%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/gregorywolovich?fref=nf" id="js_7p2">Gregory S. Wolovich Jr. is running hard.&nbsp;</a></span></span><br /><span class="fwn fcg"><span class="fwb fcg" data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;;&quot;}"><br /></span></span><span class="fwn fcg"><span class="fwb fcg" data-ft="{&quot;tn&quot;:&quot;;&quot;}">Linda Houck was near&nbsp; the top of the ballot on the Demcratic side and Sheila Saidman topped it. Matt Vough and John Godamski round out the field</span></span>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/05/luzerne-county-council.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-3131472574112822415Mon, 22 May 2017 23:13:00 +00002017-05-22T19:24:40.807-04:00ControllerLuzerne Countymichelle bednarWalter GriffithLooking to the Fall- Luzerne County Controller<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pSXwp87s2no/WSNut08lDQI/AAAAAAAAFfA/vX2YlBkZu3YztUmxd87hohi1Mm02sxcUACLcB/s1600/DSC00033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pSXwp87s2no/WSNut08lDQI/AAAAAAAAFfA/vX2YlBkZu3YztUmxd87hohi1Mm02sxcUACLcB/s200/DSC00033.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>. <br /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LQCjOeXTOUg/WSNwaW9btbI/AAAAAAAAFfM/F5nABJyN8RMQKIkr7kRaFg8RxvWEZ5iFwCLcB/s1600/Walter2_jpg_w180h270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LQCjOeXTOUg/WSNwaW9btbI/AAAAAAAAFfM/F5nABJyN8RMQKIkr7kRaFg8RxvWEZ5iFwCLcB/s200/Walter2_jpg_w180h270.jpg" width="133" /></a>The headline race in Luzerne County will be the contest for Controller. Incumbent Democrat Michelle Bednar is being challenged by former Republican Controller Walter Griffith. <br />I hope I'm wrong but this one may get a bit nasty. Both candidates have been friends for many years&nbsp;and I would hate to see that. My advice to supporters of both candidates is to stick to issues and qualifications. Skip the personal attacks<br /><br /><br />http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/05/looking-to-fall-luzerne-county.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-5900240098158160437Sun, 21 May 2017 01:28:00 +00002017-05-20T21:28:29.871-04:00Nobody reads Blogs on SaturdayJust Alex Milaneshttp://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/05/nobody-reads-blogs-on-saturday.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-6710841730980912490Sun, 07 May 2017 03:39:00 +00002017-05-06T23:39:41.609-04:00blogfestThe return of BlogfestA big Thank You to Brian and the staff of Ole Tyme Charley's for hosting great event. The Green Party came out in force in addition to&nbsp; many Democratic and Republican candidates,&nbsp; labor leaders, bloggers&nbsp; and most importantly voters. More in the AM.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6SaO4mZcqOw/WQ6W1vWvm7I/AAAAAAAAFew/VUAeBVDmAiY5g6208hxWoReTNdXS0vNGACLcB/s1600/IMG_1306%2B%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6SaO4mZcqOw/WQ6W1vWvm7I/AAAAAAAAFew/VUAeBVDmAiY5g6208hxWoReTNdXS0vNGACLcB/s320/IMG_1306%2B%25281%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/05/the-return-of-blogfest.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-5939008746756148378Thu, 04 May 2017 02:38:00 +00002017-05-03T22:38:34.686-04:00Christine KatsockJoe CaffreySean WalkerW-B AreaWilkes-Barre Area School Board Meeting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8nEtb8emvmE/WQqLE5VBrsI/AAAAAAAAFeM/_rWp9sw1_tgkKBoJSex5PYohNLxnDYlRACLcB/s1600/IMG_1248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8nEtb8emvmE/WQqLE5VBrsI/AAAAAAAAFeM/_rWp9sw1_tgkKBoJSex5PYohNLxnDYlRACLcB/s320/IMG_1248.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>About 70 people attended the school board meeting tonight. I got there late and had to leave early because of another commitment. I expected it to be a lot more contentious but for the most part it was civil. The board applauded the speakers and answered their questions. There was a lot of back and forth between the board and Attorney Kim Borland of Save our Schools. I was surprised to learn that many board members have not visited the sites under consideration for the new school. Most of the public speakers asked that they delay any decision and gather more data. Board member Joe Caffrey said this issue has been kicked down the road for over 15 years and it was time to act.<br /><br />In the end they voted 7-2 to start the&nbsp; process of&nbsp; building a new&nbsp; high school on the 80-acre site between Maffett and Main streets in Plains Twp. Shawn Walker and Christine Katsock voted no<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r7G0TPH3-lo/WQqTRQeuyYI/AAAAAAAAFec/EVpfJvlkKAk4Zxjp0aRRbLWviAEwk7IXwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r7G0TPH3-lo/WQqTRQeuyYI/AAAAAAAAFec/EVpfJvlkKAk4Zxjp0aRRbLWviAEwk7IXwCLcB/s320/IMG_1229.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><h1 class="entry-title">&nbsp;</h1><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4DDRRyjYRKs/WQqTswrwivI/AAAAAAAAFeg/xBiF7uXRt-c35ctjWxGRYaIZDSqAnhabgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4DDRRyjYRKs/WQqTswrwivI/AAAAAAAAFeg/xBiF7uXRt-c35ctjWxGRYaIZDSqAnhabgCLcB/s320/IMG_1233.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><h1 class="entry-title">&nbsp;</h1><h1 class="entry-title"><a href="http://timesleader.com/news/656130/w-b-area-board-narrows-site-selection-for-planned-consolidated-high-school" target="_blank">W-B Area Board narrows site selection for planned consolidated high school</a></h1><h1 class="entry-title">&nbsp;</h1>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/05/wilkes-barre-area-school-board-meeting.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-8203516834958522285Tue, 25 Apr 2017 01:04:00 +00002017-04-24T21:56:33.704-04:00blogfestThe return of Blogfest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lO8KWxeF8l0/WP6r44G5pfI/AAAAAAAAFd8/cDKIXnDbm0ck4J57KlYka9WexXGcchYfACLcB/s1600/2921250438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lO8KWxeF8l0/WP6r44G5pfI/AAAAAAAAFd8/cDKIXnDbm0ck4J57KlYka9WexXGcchYfACLcB/s1600/2921250438.jpg" /></a></div><span class="_4n-j _3cht fsl" data-testid="event-permalink-details">It was so much fun in the past people have been asking us to do it again. Started as an informal political mixer it became a networking event for bloggers, voters and political candidates.<br /> <br /> Past events have drawn crowds of 100 to 150, including political and non-political bloggers, politicians from every party as well as independents, and those curious about politics and blogging.<br /> <br /> Since its inception Blogfest has been described as the best political event of the season. The rule is "agree to disagree, but don't be disagreeable." Many local and statewide candidates will be attending. All are welcome, and there is no charge for admission.</span><br /><br /><span class="_4n-j _3cht fsl" data-testid="event-permalink-details">&nbsp;</span>This a joint venture of NEPA Blogs, The Lu Lac Political Letter and Gort42.<br /><br /><br /><div class="_6a _6b"><a class="_5xhk" data-hovercard-obj-id="113487708684998" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=113487708684998" data-testid="event-permalink-location" href="https://www.facebook.com/OleTymeCharleys/" id="u_0_1m">Ole Tyme Charley's Restaurant &amp; Pub</a><br /><div class="_5xhp fsm fwn fcg">31 S River St, Plains, Pennsylvania 18705</div><div class="_5xhp fsm fwn fcg"></div><div class="_5xhp fsm fwn fcg">Saturday May 6th starting at 5 PM</div><div class="_5xhp fsm fwn fcg"></div></div>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/04/the-return-of-blogfest.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-157428869610151840Mon, 20 Feb 2017 01:20:00 +00002017-02-19T20:20:03.354-05:00Linda McClosky HouckLuzerne County Councilmichelle bednarWendy CominskyRock the County-Wendy Cominsky for Luzerne County Council<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0nQHdouW7T4/WKo-Z-Nul6I/AAAAAAAAFcQ/5Fc6iPor23sb54rAiIHUD8t1qJc_v4qvgCLcB/s1600/DSC00052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0nQHdouW7T4/WKo-Z-Nul6I/AAAAAAAAFcQ/5Fc6iPor23sb54rAiIHUD8t1qJc_v4qvgCLcB/s320/DSC00052.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Wendy Cominsky is one of those very special people who decided to run for office. She doesn't have money or powerful friends just a desire to make a difference. I asked her why she would want to do such a thing and she told me she has been an activist about issues she cares about and people suggested she should run for office. So she listened to them and threw her hat into the ring. She is a middle class worker who owns her own business and she said if she is successful it will encourage more people like her.<br /><br />She organized a great event and invited other candidates to circulate&nbsp; petitions. The other council candidates gathering signatures were incumbent Linda Houck and newcomers Phil Gianfarcaro, David Popiak and Sheila Saidman.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--OC_UEW4taU/WKpBnvO3SII/AAAAAAAAFcg/7AeBtk2euY8gNyecytSTvd7kTmPdVH5AACLcB/s1600/DSC00033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--OC_UEW4taU/WKpBnvO3SII/AAAAAAAAFcg/7AeBtk2euY8gNyecytSTvd7kTmPdVH5AACLcB/s320/DSC00033.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Michelle Bednar is running for reelection as Controller and said she is proud of the job she has done. She has reorganized the office and has done more with less people because of the county financial problems. The audits are on time and she will be looking at the&nbsp; books of the local tax collectors next. The audit of the Homestead exemption has netted $100K in back taxes.<br /><br />A couple of Wilkes-Barre Area School Board candidates also were seeking some ink.Melissa Etzle Patla and Jarvis Wright. More on Jarvis tomorrow.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsKgJN1Wmfo/WKpDo88NnnI/AAAAAAAAFc0/mjb5ViUAXhIVRtbdltKAlF-ZfQegbBrhQCEw/s1600/DSC00034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsKgJN1Wmfo/WKpDo88NnnI/AAAAAAAAFc0/mjb5ViUAXhIVRtbdltKAlF-ZfQegbBrhQCEw/s200/DSC00034.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sb9Dmq5Tta4/WKpDeAfvkCI/AAAAAAAAFcw/QVm7I8Mj61MYgwF5m0t1FWMzcL7NMMRGQCLcB/s1600/DSC00048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sb9Dmq5Tta4/WKpDeAfvkCI/AAAAAAAAFcw/QVm7I8Mj61MYgwF5m0t1FWMzcL7NMMRGQCLcB/s200/DSC00048.JPG" width="200" /></a>&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/02/rock-county-wendy-cominsky-for-luzerne.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-6513152376863279655Sat, 18 Feb 2017 21:54:00 +00002017-02-18T16:55:04.231-05:00ControllerLuzerne CountyWalter GriffithAnother update from Walter<i><span class="_5yl5">"I never denied that I did something wrong and I paid my fine as well as served my probation, and resigned from the job that I loved doing for the people of this County I think I left my guard down and was very stupid in allowing them the opportunity to get me out of office. I think it was truly an honest mistake that cost me dearly financially and emotionally and I am truly sorry for my mistakes."</span></i><br /><br /><span class="_5yl5">&nbsp;<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QOmuHNR7kiU/WKjB4nn_DTI/AAAAAAAAFbg/72pFQy5sEUwFyKiQT_iy_JDqxQvWX6j4QCLcB/s1600/IMG_2641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QOmuHNR7kiU/WKjB4nn_DTI/AAAAAAAAFbg/72pFQy5sEUwFyKiQT_iy_JDqxQvWX6j4QCLcB/s400/IMG_2641.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harry Haas, Carolee Medico, Walter Griffith, Stephen J.A. X. Y .Z Urban, The Judge, Charlie Lemmond</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></span>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/02/another-update-from-walter.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12341882.post-1772454147255305397Sat, 18 Feb 2017 20:58:00 +00002017-02-18T16:41:22.572-05:00ControllerLuzerne Countymichelle bednarWalter GriffithWalter is back<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZjIHaGmlY8/WKi0Vksv8JI/AAAAAAAAFbE/oYvFN8jvJ1QFeP53Mo6GhG4tqi6n1QV0wCLcB/s1600/IMG_2645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZjIHaGmlY8/WKi0Vksv8JI/AAAAAAAAFbE/oYvFN8jvJ1QFeP53Mo6GhG4tqi6n1QV0wCLcB/s320/IMG_2645.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A photo from Griffiths campaign in 2009</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br />To the surprise of no one former Luzerne County Controller Walter Griffith has announced he wants his old job back. Walter was elected to the office in 2009 but resigned in 2013&nbsp; after he was charged with illegal wiretapping and sentenced to probation.<span style="background-color: blue;"><span style="background-color: black;"></span> </span>“I think it’s a valid concern for people to have about me resigning my position as a controller,” he said. “If I made a mistake, I made a mistake.”<br /><br />I expect a few other Republicans&nbsp; will enter the primary to take on incumbent Michelle Bednar.<br /><br />This race should be one of the most hotly contested in 2017. Many of my Republican friends are telling me they won't support him this time.<br /><br />From his <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100015300308446&amp;hc_ref=SEARCH&amp;fref=nf" target="_blank">FB page:</a><br /><br /><i>Today I'm officially announcing my candidacy for Luzerne County Controller. I will be circulating Nominating Petitions to have my name placed on the ballot for the Republican party nominee in the May 16th Primary election. If you would like to sign my petition please let me know as soon as possible. Please remember you can only sign 1 petition. <br /> Thank you and please share this with all of your friends.</i><br /><br />I'm surprised he didn't send me a press release, he's pretty good at that.&nbsp; I will have more on this next week.<i></i><br /><i><br /></i><i><br /></i><br /><h1><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://citizensvoice.com/news/former-county-controller-convicted-of-obstruction-wants-the-job-back-1.2155496" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Former county controller convicted of obstruction wants the job back</span></a></span></h1><h1><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">&nbsp;</span></span></h1><h2><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">Update</span></span></span></span></b><span class="post-icons"><span class="item-control blog-admin pid-1797094989"><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=12341882&amp;postID=1772454147255305397&amp;from=pencil" title="Edit Post"><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><img alt="" class="icon-action" height="18" src="https://resources.blogblog.com/img/icon18_edit_allbkg.gif" width="18" /></span></b></a></span></span></h2><h2><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">&nbsp;</span></b></span></span></h2><h2><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Walter Griffith responds:</span></b></span></span></h2><h2><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">&nbsp;</span></b></span></span></h2><h2><i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">&nbsp;</span></b></span></span></i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="_5yl5">Ben I want you to know I respect your post. I also want everyone to know the circumstances that led to my removal. Everyone knows that the entire courthouse wanted me gone because of my uncovering the poor practices of the administration. I did not "Wiretap" anyone I recorded the Chairman of City Vest in my office at 7 PM because I was there alone. I placed him on speakerphone and was not aware that this was a violation of the law. I simply wanted to have a source of reference for myself of what was told to me regarding this very important audit of 10 million dollars of Federal Funds. I never released this recording to anyone and no one ever knew I had the recording. The FBI issued a Warrant for all the information that I had regarding my audit of this money and under the threat of Contempt, it was provided to the FBI ONLY. I was not aware that I was doing anything illegal or wrong. The County Power-brokers wanted me removed from office, plain and simple as was evident by the plea agreement. The taxpayers of this County are all smart enough to see that and will support me in my effort to finish the job I started. Thanks for listening and I appreciate your time.</span></span></b></i> </span></span></h2>http://gort42.blogspot.com/2017/02/walter-is-back.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Gort)1